STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"Hero Worship"
#40275-211
Teleplay by
Joe Menosky
Directed by
Patrick Stewart
THE WRITING CREDITS MAY NOT BE FINAL AND SHOULD NOT BE USED
FOR PUBLICITY OR ADVERTISING PURPOSES WITHOUT FIRST CHECKING
WITH THE TELEVISION LEGAL DEPARTMENT.
Copyright 1991 Paramount Pictures Corporation. All Rights
Reserved. This script is not for publication or
reproduction. No one is authorized to dispose of same. If
lost or destroyed, please notify the Script Department.
FINAL DRAFT
OCTOBER 8, 1991
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/17/91 - CAST
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"Hero Worship"
CAST
PICARD TIMOTHY
RIKER ENSIGN FELTON
DATA TEACHER
BEVERLY
TROI
GEORDI
WORF
TRANSPORTER CHIEF HUTCHINSON
Non-Speaking
SUPERNUMERARIES
CHILDREN IN CLASSROOM
WAITER IN TEN-FORWARD
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/15/91 - SETS
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"Hero Worship"
SETS
INTERIORS EXTERIORS
USS ENTERPRISE USS ENTERPRISE
MAIN BRIDGE
CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM VICO
OBSERVATION LOUNGE
MAIN ENGINEERING
TRANSPORTER ROOM
TEN-FORWARD
CLASSROOM
DATA'S QUARTERS
TIMOTHY'S QUARTERS
SICKBAY
VICO
CORRIDOR #1
CORRIDOR #2
11:[5,#b],18:[1,#b]
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/17/91 - TEASER 1.
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"Hero Worship"
TEASER
FADE IN:
1 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
at warp.
PICARD (V.O.)
Captain's log, stardate 45400.3.
Two days ago, Starbase
Five-one-four lost contact with
the research vessel Vico, which
was sent to explore the interior
of a Black Cluster. We are
en route to investigate.
2 INT. BRIDGE
PICARD, RIKER, DATA, WORF, ENSIGN FELTON at the conn.
ENSIGN FELTON
Captain, we are entering sector
nine-seven.
DATA
Sir, I am picking up massive
gravitational fluctuations...
PICARD
Take us out of warp, Ensign.
ENSIGN FELTON
Yes, sir.
Ensign Felton touches the panel.
WORF
The Black Cluster is in visual
range.
PICARD
On screen.
WORF
Aye, Captain.
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/14/91 - TEASER 2.
3 INCLUDE SCREEN (OPTICAL)
Everyone reacts to the awesome spectacle. A huge,
black bending of space, seemingly an immense lens-like
cloud, dotted throughout by tiny pulsars -- miniature
stars that blink on and off like lighthouses or
fireflies.
RIKER
Let's find that ship. Full sensor
sweep, Mister Data.
DATA
(touching panel)
Yes, Commander.
Riker indicates the cluster.
RIKER
It's quite a sight.
PICARD
(nodding)
One of the most ancient formations
in the galaxy.
Data looks up.
DATA
I have located the Vico. The
vessel appears to be adrift.
RIKER
Let's see it.
Data touches the console.
The screen image shifts, and is replaced by a closer
view: a mid-sized spacecraft, its hull sheared off in
several places, hanging motionless against the starry
background.
4 RESUME
Everyone reacts to the sight.
RIKER
Life signs?
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/16/91 - TEASER 3-3A.
4 CONTINUED:
WORF
Nothing, Commander.
RIKER
Damage report, Mister Data.
DATA
(off instruments)
The outer and inner hulls have
been breached. Decks seven
through twelve are exposed to
space.
RIKER
Set up a translink to their
computer core. Let's see what
happened.
Data tries a few commands.
DATA
I cannot, sir. The emergency
bulkheads on that deck are in
place. Our linkup signal cannot
penetrate them.
PICARD
(to Data)
Structural status, Commander.
Data hits a few controls on the console, looks at the
results.
DATA
Stress readings indicate
considerable pressure on the
transverse supports.
PICARD
Is it stable enough for an away
team?
DATA
(off instruments)
Yes, sir. But the risk of
structural collapse is high.
PICARD
(to Riker)
Have transporter room one maintain
a lock on each member of your
away team.
(MORE)
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/17/91 - TEASER 4.
4 CONTINUED: (3)
PICARD (cont'd)
I want you out of there at the
first sign of trouble.
RIKER
Aye, Captain.
(to conn)
Ensign, take us to fifteen
thousand meters.
ENSIGN FELTON
Yes, sir.
RIKER
(heading for door)
Data, you're with me.
Riker continues toward the turbolift, as Data gets out
of his chair and joins him.
OFF Picard, staring at the wreckage.
5 INT. VICO (OPTICAL)
Riker, Data, and Geordi MATERIALIZE in a corridor-like
chamber that has a couple of science consoles and small
monitors against the wall. Data is carrying a small
suitcase-sized, boxlike device. The corridor has been
HEAVILY DAMAGED.
Support beams are crashed through the ceiling, wall
panels are exposed -- it looks like one false step will
bring it all crashing down. When the away team moves,
it is with great caution and awareness of their
treacherous surroundings. They simultaneously spot
a couple of bodies partially exposed beneath the
rubble. Data takes out his tricorder and aims it
toward the bodies -- but it only confirms what they
already knew. The away team exchanges glances.
Upon seeing the consoles, Data and Geordi start toward
them -- suddenly a structural member shifts in the
wall. The away team freezes. There is a metallic
groan, a slight shake. And everything is again still.
Data and Geordi again head for the consoles. One
monitor is dead. The other is lit up, flickering,
displaying a computer graphic of a graviton wave field.
They touch the controls on both panels but nothing
changes.
DATA
(re: dead monitor)
This station is inoperable.
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/14/91 - TEASER 5.
5 CONTINUED:
GEORDI
(re: his console)
This one's stuck in a feedback
loop.
RIKER
Let's try to tap directly into
the computer core.
GEORDI
There should be an ODN junction
along here somewhere...
They all start scanning the area. Geordi spots a
promising panel against the wall.
GEORDI
(continuing)
This looks like a good
possibility...
He reaches down to take hold of the panel --
RIKER
Careful, Geordi. You don't want
to pull out the wrong brick...
Carefully, Geordi removes the panel -- revealing the
fiber optic trunk within.
RIKER
Data.
Data brings over the device. Sets it three feet in
front of the ODN trunk and touches a control.
A LASER type beam shoots out of the box, connecting to
the trunk. Data tweaks the controls and the beam
changes color.
DATA
(off colors)
Core transfer is engaged.
Geordi looks at the instrumentation on the device.
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/17/91 - TEASER 6.
5 CONTINUED: (2)
GEORDI
Exchange protocol verified.
(takes reading)
The files seem to be intact. Some
of them, anyway.
WEAK VOICE
Is somebody there... ?
All three react. Riker indicates the transfer device.
RIKER
(to Geordi)
Stay here.
(to Data)
Data.
He motions "follow me" with his head. Riker and Data
cautiously move to the end of the damaged corridor and
around the corner.
6 INT. SCIENCE SHIP CHAMBER - ON TIMOTHY
a boy of ten. Trapped beneath a fallen bulkhead in an
even more heavily damaged area. He looks up at Data
and Riker -- panic on his face.
TIMOTHY
Are my parents alright?
7 RESUME RIKER AND DATA
OFF their reactions.
FADE OUT.
END OF TEASER
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/24/91 - ACT ONE 7.
ACT ONE
FADE IN:
(NOTE: Episode credits fall over opening scenes.)
8 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
The ship is facing the crippled Vico, the Black Cluster
in the background.
PICARD (V.O.)
Captain's log, supplemental. A
young boy, shielded from our
initial sensor scans, has been
discovered alive by the away team.
The degree of damage to the Vico
is making our rescue attempt
difficult...
9 INT. BRIDGE
Picard, Worf, Ensign Felton.
PICARD
(to com)
Transporter room one, can you lock
onto him?
10 INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM
Hutchinson at the controls.
PICARD'S COM VOICE
And transport directly to
sickbay?
HUTCHINSON
(to com)
I'll try, Captain...
(doubtful)
But there's a lot of shielding
to pull him through.
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/24/91 - ACT ONE 7A.
11 INT. BRIDGE
PICARD
Acknowledged.
(beat)
Picard to Crusher.
BEVERLY'S COM VOICE
Sickbay here, Captain.
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/24/91 - ACT ONE 8.
11 CONTINUED:
PICARD
Standby for emergency transport.
BEVERLY'S COM VOICE
Aye, sir. Crusher out.
PICARD
(to com)
Picard to Commander Riker.
12 INT. VICO (OPTICAL)
Data and Geordi are standing by. Riker is crouched
down next to the trapped boy. Timothy appears almost
numb with fright.
PICARD'S COM VOICE
Is the boy ready, Number One?
RIKER
(to boy)
Everything's gonna be okay...
A beat. The boy doesn't answer. But he nods his head
almost imperceptibly.
RIKER
(touching combadge)
Ready, sir.
PICARD'S COM VOICE
At your signal.
RIKER
(to com)
Aye, Captain.
Riker again looks at the boy.
RIKER
Alright... here we go...
Riker straightens up, backs away from the fallen
bulkhead.
RIKER
Energize.
The boy begins to DEMATERIALIZE.
12A INT. SICKBAY
Beverly watches as the boy MATERIALIZES in and out on
a bio-bed.
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/24/91 - ACT ONE 9.
13 INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM (OPTICAL)
Hutchinson works the controls. A few seconds go by...
Hutchinson shakes his head.
HUTCHINSON
(to com)
The lock is holding. I just can't
resolve the matter stream. Not
with all that victurium alloy in
the way.
13A INT. SICKBAY
As Beverly watches the boy completely DEMATERIALIZES.
14 INT. VICO
The boy MATERIALIZES back in place.
HUTCHINSON'S COM VOICE
Commander Riker. You'll have to
get him out into the corridor.
Riker exchanges a glance with Data and Geordi.
All three of them look at the bulkhead trapping the
boy. They glance up at the structural beams that are
in turn braced against the bulkhead. It all looks
heavy as hell -- and extremely unstable.
Riker indicates the bulkhead.
RIKER
(continuing)
That's gotta weigh over a ton,
Data. Can you move it?
DATA
Yes, sir. However, that may
initiate the collapse of the
surrounding supports. I recommend
that you and Geordi return to the
ship.
A beat. Riker reluctantly nods.
RIKER
Agreed.
(turning)
La Forge...
They both head back toward the open corridor.
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/16/91 - ACT ONE 10.
15 TRANSPORTER ROOM (OPTICAL)
Riker and Geordi MATERIALIZE on the transporter pad.
Beverly is standing near the transporter chief.
HUTCHINSON
(to Riker)
I'm locked onto Commander Data
and the boy, sir. I'll energize
as soon as they've cleared the
bulkheads.
RIKER
(keys combadge)
Whenever you're ready, Data.
16 INT. VICO
Data is standing next to the trapped boy.
DATA
(to com)
Yes, Sir.
He crouches next to the boy, who stares at him,
wide-eyed, puzzled to see him up close, amazed at what
Data seems to be attempting.
TIMOTHY
You're gonna lift that?
DATA
Yes. Then I will carry you to
the corridor. We will transport
back to the Enterprise from there.
Do you understand?
The boy is still amazed.
TIMOTHY
How can you pick up something so
heavy?
DATA
I am an android. My strength is
many times that of a human.
A beat as Data considers an appropriate way to reassure
the frightened boy -- recalls Riker's words.
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/14/91 - ACT ONE 10A.
16 CONTINUED:
DATA
(continuing)
Everything is going to be... okay.
Data puts one hand and shoulder to the bulkhead,
leaving the other free.
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/24/91 - ACT ONE 11.
16 CONTINUED: (2)
DATA
I will count to three.
(beat)
One... two... three...
Everything happens at once:
-- with his android strength, Data forces the bulkhead
upwards. The boy scrambles free, falling to the floor.
-- a second structural member collapses as a result of
the action.
-- Data drops the bulkhead, spins, scoops the boy into
the air and dashes back toward the opposite corridor.
17 DATA (OPTICAL)
shoots into the open corridor, boy under his arm,
tapping his combadge with his free hand.
DATA
(to com)
Energize!
He and the boy DEMATERIALIZE -- a piece of the ceiling
falls right through them.
18 INT. SICKBAY (OPTICAL)
Data and the boy MATERIALIZE, standing on the floor.
19 INCLUDE BEVERLY AND AN N.D. NURSE
Timothy looks up from the security of Data's shoulder,
still in shock from the experience. He stares at the
unfamiliar faces watching him. Timothy buries his head
into Data's shoulder.
OFF Data's reaction.
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/18/91 - ACT ONE 12.
19A EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
The wrecked Vico hanging near the Enterprise.
PICARD (V.O.)
Captain's Log, supplemental. A
thorough search of the Vico has
revealed no additional survivors.
Troi has begun the process of
counseling the boy in regard to
the tragedy.
20 INT. SICKBAY
Timothy is on his back on a diagnostic bed, eyes open.
His hand is still gripping Data's -- the boy clearly
refuses to let go. Timothy has an edgy look in his
eyes, bordering on panic. Beverly and Troi are
standing next to Data.
TIMOTHY
(in a rush)
We were in the Black Cluster.
I don't know where they came
from... but they had a big ship
-- they kept shooting at us. Then
they beamed over. They had purple
helmets on and phaser rifles.
I saw them. But they didn't see
me...
He runs out of steam. Beverly checks the diagnostic
reading above the bed.
BEVERLY
(gently)
You're safe now, Timothy. You're
going to be alright.
Timothy gives her a blank look.
BEVERLY
(continuing)
You must be hungry. Would you
like me to get you something to
eat?
Timothy nods. Beverly turns and heads for a
replicator. Data turns to Troi.
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/14/91 - ACT ONE 12A.
20 CONTINUED:
DATA
Counselor, I must join Commander
La Forge in engineering. If you
will excuse me --
Data attempts to gently retrieve his hand -- but the
boy grips it ever the more tightly.
Data stops in his tracks. He and Troi look at Timothy.
The boy averts his eyes. A beat.
TROI
Timothy, would you like Data to
stay a little bit longer?
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/14/91 - ACT ONE 13.
20 CONTINUED: (2)
TIMOTHY
Yes.
Data glances at Troi, then back at the kid -- who is
still keeping his eyes down.
OFF Data's head tilt reaction.
21 INT. ENGINEERING (OPTICAL)
The away team's device is dumping its datastream into
the computer console -- as before, the LASER makes the
connection.
Geordi is showing Picard a graphic of the wrecked Vico
on a small monitor.
GEORDI
Sections of the primary and
secondary hull were torn right
off.
(indicating)
Shearing planes are here, here,
and here.
Picard studies the diagram.
A beat.
PICARD
(re: datastream)
How much longer until we can
access their logs?
GEORDI
Less than an hour.
Picard nods. He reaches toward the console and touches
a command.
22 CLOSE ON: COMPUTER MONITOR (OPTICAL)
as the external view of the damaged Vico is replaced
by a cross-section graphic that exposes the interior
architecture.
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/16/91 - ACT ONE 14.
23 INCLUDE PICARD AND GEORDI
as Picard studies the graphic and indicates a central
area of the ship.
PICARD
The boy was here.
GEORDI
(nodding)
The hallway outside the computer
core.
Geordi glances up at Picard.
GEORDI
(continuing)
His mother was the ship's systems
engineer.
(beat; indicating)
The second away team found her
body here -- inside the core.
PICARD
And the boy's father?
GEORDI
Ship's second officer.
(off diagram)
He was most likely on the bridge
when it was exposed to space.
PICARD
(grimly)
Most likely...
A beat as Picard studies the diagram, imagining what
it must have been like. OFF the look on his face.
24 CLOSE UP - DATA'S HAND
as Timothy's much smaller hand slowly loosens its grip,
slipping out of Data's palm.
25 WIDEN TO INCLUDE - INT. SICKBAY
Timothy is on his back in bed, eyes closed, having
obviously just fallen asleep. Data takes a careful
step back, joining Troi and Beverly, who are standing
nearby.
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/16/91 - ACT ONE 15.
25 CONTINUED:
BEVERLY
He'll sleep for a few hours at
least.
(to Troi)
There's no need to keep him here.
But I will need to see him again
tomorrow.
Beverly looks at the boy for a moment.
BEVERLY
(continuing to Troi)
You've got some work cut out for
you.
Troi nods her agreement with that assessment. Beverly
moves to another part of sickbay, leaving Data and Troi
still watching the boy.
TROI
(continuing to Data)
His world is gone, Data. We're
going to have to help him build
a new one.
Off the look between Troi and Data.
26 OMITTED
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT ONE
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/16/91 - ACT TWO 16.
ACT TWO
FADE IN:
27 INT. ENGINEERING
Geordi and Data are at their consoles.
28 ON GEORDI'S SCREEN (OPTICAL)
Alphanumeric bits of information flash by on the two
screens. There appear to be major chunks of data
missing -- blocks of blank space.
29 RESUME (OPTICAL)
GEORDI
This isn't good. I think whatever
hit the Vico set up an E-M pulse
that flashed through their
computer banks.
DATA
(agreeing)
Nearly eighty-three percent of
the records have been lost.
GEORDI
And all of their sensor logs.
(sighs)
Let's use what we got from our own
sensors. Call up the structural
analysis and the surface scans...
Data complies by keying in the appropriate commands
-- the alphanumeric data is replaced by an Okudagram
of the wrecked Vico. As they study the information...
DATA
Geordi, as a child, did you ever
experience a traumatic event?
GEORDI
You're wondering about Timothy?
DATA
Yes.
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/14/91 - ACT TWO 17.
29 CONTINUED:
Geordi thinks for a moment, remembering.
GEORDI
I was trapped in a fire once, when
I was five -- before I got my
VISOR. It only took about two
minutes before my parents found
me and pulled me out. And nobody
got hurt. But I tell you -- that
was the longest two minutes of
my life. And it was more than
a month before I would let my
parents get out of earshot. I
absolutely needed to know they
were there.
DATA
Timothy no longer has that kind
of support.
GEORDI
(sadly)
Yeah...
30 INT. SCHOOL
A TEACHER, male, late-twenties, is slowly walking past
a beautiful painting of a multitiered, very
alien-looking temple. He is carrying a PADD.
TEACHER
(reading)
Dara and her brother found
themselves in the land of Tagas...
The teacher continues his slow pacing, passing a young
girl, aged ten, who is following along in a PADD of
her own.
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/14/91 - ACT TWO 18.
30 CONTINUED:
TEACHER
(continuing)
... where the ruler, Elamos the
Magnificent, had proclaimed as
law:
He continues past several other children, also reading
silently along in their PADDs.
TEACHER
(continuing)
"No children will be tolerated
within the Great Kingdom."
31 INCLUDE TIMOTHY
who is working with a 24th-century equivalent of an
erector set, adding to a large, three-foot-high model
of the edifice depicted in the painting at the front
of the classroom. He's ignoring the teacher entirely,
his PADD on the floor next to him. His manner is
intensely focused.
TEACHER
(continuing)
When Dara saw the proclamation,
she just laughed, saying "How
magnificent a ruler, to be
frightened by the likes of us... "
The teacher pauses near Timothy, sees that the boy is
still working on his model.
TEACHER
(gently)
Timothy, we're done with sculpture
for now.
Timothy somewhat manically adds another piece to the
temple.
TIMOTHY
(re: the model)
It's not finished.
TEACHER
We'll come back to it next period.
Why don't you pick up your
mythology book and follow along?
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/17/91 - ACT TWO 19.
31 CONTINUED:
TIMOTHY
But it's not finished...
Timothy increases his efforts -- which result in a
somewhat lopsided addition to the model. It only makes
him more agitated.
The teacher looks at him for a moment, then glances
across the room to a large window. Follow his gaze
to --
32 TROI
who is watching the classroom from behind a large
observation window. The look on her face says "What
can I do for this boy?"
33 INT. BRIDGE - SCIENCE STATION (OPTICAL)
Data and Geordi are showing Picard a monitor that
displays a surface scan diagram of the Vico. All three
are standing.
GEORDI
Magnetic residual analysis
confirms that the Vico was
attacked inside the Black Cluster.
The graviton wave fronts pushed
the ship to where we found it.
Picard is looking at the information on the monitor.
PICARD
No sign of phaser burns on the
hull.
GEORDI
No, sir. The torsional stress
levels point to a disrupter-style
weapon.
Picard nods.
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/16/91 - ACT TWO 20.
33 CONTINUED:
Data touches the console and a color pattern overlay
appears on the graphic.
DATA
Fracture points indicate that the
energy burst came from a range
of less than three thousand
meters.
A beat as Picard considers this.
PICARD
That's a strategy consistent with
a cloaked vessel. Romulan. Or
Klingon... But we're quite a
distance from either of their
territories.
DATA
The Breen have outposts in this
sector. The attack on the Vico
is consistent with their battle
tactics -- and their level of
technology.
Geordi nods in confirmation.
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/17/91 - ACT TWO 21.
33 CONTINUED: (2)
A long beat as Picard thinks about this.
PICARD
But what would they have been
doing inside the Black Cluster?
It's a question none of them can answer. Picard starts
to walk along the back perimeter of the bridge, Data
and Geordi walking with him.
PICARD
The boy described a boarding
party, with helmets and phaser
rifles.
GEORDI
A boarding party?
A turbolift door opens and Troi steps out, within
earshot.
GEORDI
(continuing)
I don't think that's likely,
sir...
Picard reacts -- motions Troi over.
PICARD
Counselor...
Troi does so as they pause near the turbolift. Picard
nods to Geordi to continue.
GEORDI
There was absolutely no evidence
of anybody coming on board the
Vico. We would have found a
transporter field trace. Or if
somebody had used the entry
ports, we would have found an
electrostatic differential in
the docking latches. We didn't.
(beat)
Maybe he's got an active
imagination.
Picard half turns to Troi.
PICARD
Or he's lying.
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/17/91 - ACT TWO 22.
33 CONTINUED: (3)
TROI
If he is lying, I haven't been
able to sense it. Perhaps his
level of emotional trauma is too
high.
PICARD
Why wouldn't he tell us the truth?
TROI
He's still in shock... it's hard
to know what's going on in his
mind.
GEORDI
I'll check the sensor readings
again... but I'm almost sure we
won't find anything.
Geordi EXITS into the turbolift. Data starts to peel
off toward his post -- but Troi stops him.
TROI
Data -- stay a moment.
Data complies. Troi turns to Picard. A beat.
TROI
Captain -- I think we should ask
Data to spend some time with
Timothy.
DATA
I do not understand.
TROI
I'm worried about his
behavior... And what you've just
told me doesn't make me feel any
better. Data, you're the only
one Timothy's reached out to...
because you rescued him. We can
use your relationship with him
to help his recovery.
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/17/91 - ACT TWO 23.
33 CONTINUED: (4)
A beat.
PICARD
Would Timothy also be more
inclined to tell Data the truth
about what happened?
TROI
That's a possibility.
PICARD
(to Data)
Mister Data, proceed with the
child as Counselor Troi suggests.
DATA
Yes, sir.
Picard turns and enters the ready room. Data turns to
Troi.
DATA
Exactly how shall I proceed,
Counselor?
TROI
Just be with him. You're a
presence he trusts. That's what
he needs most right now.
OFF Data's bemusement.
33B
thru OMITTED
34
35 INT. TIMOTHY'S QUARTERS
Timothy is sitting alone at a table in his foster
parents' quarters. Timothy is using the "erector set,"
building the Dokkaran temple he was working at in the
classroom.
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/14/91 - ACT TWO 24.
35 CONTINUED:
He works too quickly, agitated, and the result is a
model that looks pretty sloppy.
The door CHIMES. Timothy glances up. Doesn't answer
it. He turns back to the model. The CHIMES ring
again.
TIMOTHY
(impatient)
What.
36 THE DOOR
opens, revealing Data, who steps inside.
37 INCLUDE TIMOTHY
who is glad to see who it is.
TIMOTHY
Data.
DATA
Hello, Timothy. May I enter?
TIMOTHY
Yeah.
Data steps inside. He reacts to Timothy's tabletop
creation, moving closer.
DATA
I see you are attempting to
recreate the Dokkaran temple of
Kural-Hanesh.
TIMOTHY
Isn't it great?!
Timothy is hyperenthused.
TIMOTHY
(indicating)
See, there's the big archway
the teacher told us about.
That's where everybody came in.
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/18/91 - ACT TWO 25.
38 CLOSE ON THE MINIATURE CITY
which is on the whole unbalanced -- the building leans
precariously.
TIMOTHY (o.s.)
(continuing)
That's where they stood. And
that's where the altar was -- by
the big windows.
39 RESUME SCENE (OPTICAL)
Timothy smiles proudly.
TIMOTHY
(continuing)
What do you think?
Data is about to speak then catches himself.
DATA
Do you wish a frank evaluation?
Timothy nods. Data considers for a moment, arrives at
his honest opinion, innocently offered --
DATA
It lacks the harmony that
characterized this particular
temple and Dokkaran culture in
general.
Timothy looks crushed.
TIMOTHY
You hate it.
He knocks over the tower-like structure he was
struggling with at the top of the scene. Data reacts.
DATA
I am not capable of hatred.
TIMOTHY
(upset)
I can't do anything right.
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/16/91 - ACT TWO 25A.
39 CONTINUED:
DATA
You are making an unwarranted
extrapolation. I was merely
offering an aesthetic analysis
of this particular model.
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/14/91 - ACT TWO 26.
39 CONTINUED: (2)
He manically puts together more pieces but it just
makes things even messier.
TIMOTHY
(continuing; re: the
mess)
I told you.
Timothy again makes an attempt. It doesn't work. He
throws down what's in his hands.
Data studies him for a beat.
DATA
Timothy... ?
TIMOTHY
(not looking up)
What.
DATA
May I suggest a different
approach?
No answer, but Timothy is listening.
DATA
(continuing)
You are attempting to construct
the upper tiers before you have
completed the lower.
Timothy looks up at him.
DATA
(continuing)
Observe.
Data begins to build a model of a building,
constructing the foundation as Timothy watches.
GEORDI'S COM VOICE
La Forge to Data.
DATA
(to Com)
Data here.
Data continues working on the model.
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/14/91 - ACT TWO 26A.
39 CONTINUED: (3)
GEORDI'S COM VOICE
I need your help with the shield
modulators.
DATA
(to com)
I will join you in a moment,
Geordi. Data out.
Data stops working. Timothy reacts.
DATA
Commander La Forge requires my
assistance.
Data moves to go -- but stops when he sees the
disappointment on the boy's face. Data pauses, turns
back to the model, and at DATA SPEED, quickly finishes
the construction -- much to the boy's delight.
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/16/91 - ACT TWO 27.
39 CONTINUED: (4)
TIMOTHY
Incredible.
He looks at Data with admiration.
TIMOTHY
(continuing)
How come you can do that?
Data starts for the door, Timothy tagging along.
DATA
I am designed to exceed human
capacity both mentally and
physically.
TIMOTHY
Androids are better than humans?
DATA
"Better" is a highly subjective
term. I do not, for example,
possess the ability to experience
emotions as humans do.
TIMOTHY
No emotions? You mean you can't
be happy or sad?
DATA
That is correct.
TIMOTHY
Why not?
DATA
My positronic brain is not capable
of generating those conditions.
FOLLOW them out the door.
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/18/91 - ACT TWO 28.
39A EXT. CORRIDOR - CONTINUOUS
As they step into the corridor.
TIMOTHY
Can we build something else
later?
DATA
That would be acceptable.
TIMOTHY
Bye.
DATA
Goodbye.
Data turns and Timothy watches him enter the turbolift.
When it closes behind him, Timothy maintains his stare
for a few silent beats. FOLLOW him back inside.
39B INT. TIMOTHY'S QUARTERS - CONTINUOUS
Timothy turns back to the model city, considers it for
a moment.
He turns away and goes to the mirror hanging on a
nearby wall.
He stares at his reflection. Then makes his face
utterly impassive.
TIMOTHY
(Data-like)
I am designed to exceed human
capacity...
He tilts his head in imitation of Data, watching the
result in the mirror until he gets it right. Again,
his voice is an imitation of Data's.
TIMOTHY
(continuing)
That is correct...
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/16/91 - ACT TWO 29.
39B CONTINUED:
OFF another head tilt, as -- in his own mind -- boy
becomes android...
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT TWO
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/16/91 - ACT THREE 30.
ACT THREE
FADE IN:
40 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
The Enterprise holding in space near the destroyed
Vico, the Black Cluster in the background.
41 INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE
Picard, Riker, Data, Geordi, Worf, Troi. Data is in
mid-report, on a nearby monitor is a graphic of the
interior of the Black Cluster -- a dully glowing
center, a dozen bright points scattered through it.
DATA
The Black Cluster was formed
almost nine billion years ago when
hundreds of protostars collapsed
in close proximity. The resulting
gravitational forces are violent
and highly unpredictable.
GEORDI
To get anywhere near the center,
we'll have to push through the
gravitational wavefronts -- just
like the science vessel was
designed to do. I've adjusted
our shields accordingly.
WORF
The gravitational forces will
affect sensor accuracy. Detecting
an enemy vessel will be difficult.
RIKER
Maybe that's what happened to the
Vico -- they didn't see anything
coming until it was too late.
Picard considers this, turns to Troi.
PICARD
Has the boy volunteered any
further information?
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/18/91 - ACT THREE 31.
41 CONTINUED:
TROI
No. But we have an appointment
in less than an hour.
Picard nods then glances at the graphic.
PICARD
If there's any possibility of
getting more from him, I'd like
you to pursue it.
Troi nods. Picard glances toward the graphic display.
PICARD
Regardless, we need to continue
our investigation.
(beat, informing the
room)
We'll enter the cluster at
oh-seven-hundred tomorrow morning.
Dismissed.
As they rise to exit...
42 OMITTED
43 INT. CORRIDOR
Troi stops at Timothy's door and touches the panel --
we hear the CHIME. A few moments later, the door
slides open, revealing Timothy.
TROI
Hello, Timothy. Are you ready
to go?
Timothy is wearing similarly styled and exactly the
same color clothing as Data does. His face is
impassive and android-like (his hair is still in his
own style and color). Unlike the agitated condition
he exhibited earlier, the boy is the essence of calm
self-control.
TIMOTHY
Yes, Counselor. I am ready.
The boy's uniform and his calm, almost formal tone of
voice are not lost on Troi.
TROI
How are you feeling, Timothy?
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/14/91 - ACT THREE 31A.
43 CONTINUED:
TIMOTHY
I am functioning within
established parameters.
Troi considers this for a moment.
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/18/91 - ACT THREE 32.
43 CONTINUED: (3)
TROI
Established parameters? You
sound like Data.
TIMOTHY
(of course)
I am an android.
Troi reacts
TROI
I see... Well. Let's go for our
walk, shall we?
Timothy makes a characteristically Data-like head tilt.
TIMOTHY
That would be acceptable.
OFF Troi's face -- she's in for a ride.
44 INT. TEN-FORWARD
Troi and Timothy are sitting at a table.
A WAITER stands close by, waiting to take his order.
TIMOTHY
(to waiter)
Androids do not need to eat or
drink.
A second waiter passes by with a tray full of
attractive desserts -- Timothy reacts, then turns back
to his waiter.
TIMOTHY
(continuing)
However, sometimes we like to
taste things.
(beat)
A Tamarin frost, please.
Timothy turns.
TIMOTHY
(continuing)
Would you like anything,
Counselor?
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/16/91 - ACT THREE 32A.
45 INCLUDE TROI
taking this all in, cautiously trying to deal with this
new development.
TROI
No, I'm fine, thank you.
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - 10/8/91 - ACT THREE 33.
45 CONTINUED:
TIMOTHY
As you wish.
The waiter turns and leaves.
TROI
So... you're no longer a Human?
He cocks his head in pure Data fashion.
TIMOTHY
I'm an android.
TROI
When did this happen?
TIMOTHY
I've always been an android.
TROI
What's it like... being an
android?
TIMOTHY
I am designed to exceed human
capacity both mentally and
physically. But I do not
experience emotions.
A beat as this registers on Troi.
TROI
You don't? No emotions at all?
TIMOTHY
That is correct.
OFF Troi as she wonders how to deal with this.
46 INT. READY ROOM
Picard, Troi, Data.
PICARD
An android.
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/16/91 - ACT THREE 34.
46 CONTINUED:
TROI
I know it sounds unusual - but
it is understandable.
Technically, it's called
enantiodromia. Conversion into
the opposite. Timothy went from
Human to machine. From being
emotional to being emotionless.
But the underlying trauma is still
there. He's just found a new way
to repress it.
PICARD
How long will this behavior last?
TROI
As long as he needs it to.
Timothy is rebuilding his identity
as best he can. The android
persona is only one step along
the way. When he becomes stronger
and more sure of himself, it
should drop away naturally.
Picard considers her words.
PICARD
I assume this is not a time to
confront him about what happened
to his ship.
TROI
Not yet. The best thing we can
do right now is to let Timothy
take us where he wants to go.
We should support the process
-- even encourage it.
Picard nods, turns to Data.
PICARD
Mister Data -- I'd like you to
make Timothy the best android he
can possibly be.
OFF Data's head-tilt reaction.
47 INT. TIMOTHY'S QUARTERS - ON TIMOTHY
doing a head tilt that EXACTLY MATCHES the one Data
just performed.
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - 10/8/91 - ACT THREE 34A.
48 INCLUDE DATA
standing next to him. Timothy is sitting in a chair,
the wall mirror behind him -- like an impromptu barber
shop set-up. Data is holding a small comb and is
eyeing Timothy's hair.
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - 10/8/91 - ACT THREE 35.
48 CONTINUED:
Data attempts to put the comb to use, but the boy's
android-like head tilts make it difficult -- it's like
trying to hit a moving target. After a few attempts --
DATA
Timothy, your head movements
are... counterproductive. Can
you be still?
TIMOTHY
But you do it.
Data reacts with a head tilt. Timothy mirrors it.
DATA
The servo-mechanisms in my neck
are designed to approximate Human
movements.
(beat)
I did not realize the effect was
so... distracting.
TIMOTHY
I like it.
Timothy does a couple more quick head tilts -- Data
puts a hand on the crown of his head, holding him
suddenly still.
TIMOTHY
Data, are there any other androids
in Starfleet?
DATA
No. I am the only one.
TIMOTHY
How come you're not captain?
DATA
My service experience does not
yet warrant such a position.
Timothy nods. He's silent for a moment.
TIMOTHY
Data, what's the scariest thing
that ever happened to you?
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - 10/8/91 - ACT THREE 36.
48 CONTINUED: (2)
DATA
Fear is a quality that I do not
possess.
TIMOTHY
Because it's an emotion.
DATA
That is correct.
TIMOTHY
But what if you had a nightmare?
DATA
I have never had a nightmare.
I do not require sleep.
Timothy is silent. Data continues adjusting the boy's
hair for a moment, then realizes something.
DATA
Timothy, are you having...
disturbing dreams?
Timothy doesn't answer right away. There's a sense
that he's hiding something -- even from himself. He
looks straight at Data.
TIMOTHY
I do not require sleep.
Data looks at him for a moment -- he isn't going to get
anything further out of him for now. Data finishes one
last touch-up on the hair, then lifts the chair and
turns it barber style to face the mirror on the wall.
49
thru OMITTED
50
51 ANGLE - THE MIRROR
where we can see Timothy looking at his reflection --
and his perfectly executed Data-like hairstyle. Data
is visible over his shoulder.
DATA
Is it satisfactory?
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - 10/8/91 - ACT THREE 37.
52 RESUME
as Timothy looks at Data with tremendous admiration,
then glances back at the mirror.
TIMOTHY
It's perfect.
53 INT. CORRIDOR
Data and Timothy are striding along the corridor, in
perfect step, their arms swinging in unison. It looks
for all the world like there's a new android on board.
54 INCLUDE TWO N.D. CREWMEMBERS
approaching from the opposite direction. As Data and
Timothy pass by, the crewmembers simultaneously stop
and do a double-take.
55 INT. SICKBAY
Data and Timothy are sitting side by side with their
legs hanging off the side of a diagnostic bed.
Beverly is running a hand-held, medical scanning DEVICE
over the length of Timothy's arm.
BEVERLY
Transfer circuits are functioning
properly.
TIMOTHY
Within established parameters?
BEVERLY
(nodding)
Absolutely.
Beverly continues with the scan, moving it over his
head.
BEVERLY
(continuing)
Input processing, pattern
recognition... all within
established parameters.
She takes the scanner down, finished.
DATA & TIMOTHY
(simultaneously)
Thank you, Doctor.
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/16/91 - ACT THREE 38.
56 OMITTED
57 INT. DATA'S QUARTERS
Data and Timothy are each sitting at an easel, paint
brush in hand, dabbing brushstrokes against their
respective canvasses. Timothy's set-up is an exact
duplicate. Data's painting is a tranquil landscape,
we can't quite see what Timothy's working on...
Timothy looks sleepy, like they've been going non-stop
all day. Data is as fresh as always.
The boy glances down at his palette and paint jars.
TIMOTHY
I ran out of red ochre.
DATA
You may use mine.
Data hands him a jar.
TIMOTHY
Thank you.
Timothy can't help but let loose with a huge yawn.
DATA
Perhaps you should return to your
quarters.
TIMOTHY
I'm fine.
(in explanation)
The servo-mechanisms in my mouth
are designed to approximate human
movements.
Data considers for a moment. Then attempts a yawn. It
doesn't look too convincing. But Timothy doesn't want
to discourage him.
TIMOTHY
(continuing)
Not bad.
DATA
Thank you.
Data looks over at the boy's easel.
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - 10/8/91 - ACT THREE 39.
58 INCLUDE TIMOTHY'S PAINTING
It looks exceedingly violent -- we can't actually see
a spacecraft ripped apart, but we can sense the feeling
of one. The boy's trauma is making its presence
known...
Data reacts to the painting.
DATA
It is very... expressive.
TIMOTHY
Thank you.
A beat. Timothy doesn't seem to be aware of what his
own work suggests.
DATA
Is your painting representative
of something?
TIMOTHY
(shrugs)
It's just a painting.
Timothy again yawns. Data thinks for a moment -- this
is not his area of expertise and he knows to tread
lightly...
DATA
Timothy, you understand that you
may speak with me about anything
you wish -- any subject.
Timothy again yawns.
TIMOTHY
(drifting)
I understand...
Data watches him for a moment, but nothing further is
forthcoming.
59 ON DATA
turning back to his own easel, applying a few
brushstrokes.
DATA
At times I too find it difficult
to share my thoughts with others.
(MORE)
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - 10/8/91 - ACT THREE 40.
59 CONTINUED:
DATA (cont'd)
I am not always confident that
I am expressing myself in a way
that Humans will comprehend. But
I know that...
Data turns --
60 INCLUDE TIMOTHY
now slumped on his chair, fast asleep. Data reacts,
stops speaking.
A beat and Data stands, lifts Timothy off the chair,
then carries and carefully deposits him on a nearby
couch.
Data straightens, watches Timothy for a moment. The
boy curls up, looks like he's out for the night.
OFF the look on Data's face -- if an android could feel
tenderness and concern...
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT THREE
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/23/91 - ACT FOUR 41.
ACT FOUR
FADE IN:
60A INT. ENGINEERING
Geordi is at a console, inspecting a PADD that an N.D.
ENGINEER has just handed him. The mood is relaxed --
like the end of a work shift.
GEORDI
(re: PADD)
That's fine.
He hands it back to the Engineer.
GEORDI
(continuing)
Just make sure the tolerance
doesn't slip more than point three
one in either direction.
The Engineer nods and walks away. Geordi turns back to
the console, enters a few commands.
DATA (o.s.)
Hello, Geordi.
60B INCLUDE DATA
Approaching the console.
GEORDI
Hey, Data.
DATA
I hope I am not disturbing your
work.
GEORDI
(re: console)
Nope. Just finishing up here.
He inputs a few more commands. Data watches him
silently for several beats. Geordi finally reacts to
his friend just standing there.
GEORDI
You need something?
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/23/91 - ACT FOUR 41A.
60B CONTINUED:
DATA
I would like to confide in you,
Geordi. However, I am finding
my thoughts difficult to
verbalize.
Geordi stops working, gives Data his full attention.
GEORDI
It's about Timothy.
DATA
(surprised)
How did you know?
GEORDI
If I had a boy going around
pretending to be just like me,
I might be a little uncomfortable
too.
DATA
I am not capable of being
uncomfortable. But I am
undergoing a perceptual paradigm
shift.
GEORDI
You better define that for me,
Data.
DATA
I have spent my entire life
emulating Humans. Now, I find
myself confronted by a Human who
is emulating me.
GEORDI
I got you... the shoe's on the
other foot...
Data processes that briefly, glances curiously at his
foot... then...
DATA
Ah, the metaphor... yes, that is
correct. I am forced to realize
that I have largely ignored the
aspects of myself that others
would find attractive.
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/23/91 - ACT FOUR 41B.
60B CONTINUED: (2)
GEORDI
That's a very Human thing to do,
Data.
Data reacts with a look.
GEORDI
A lot of us have a way of not
appreciating ourselves. We're
too close to the subject.
(beat)
Keep an eye on Timothy... he might
help you learn to understand
yourself a little better.
OFF Data's reaction.
61 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
Moving slowly at impulse speed toward the Black
Cluster.
62 INT. BRIDGE
Picard, Riker, Worf, Ensign Felton.
WORF
We are approaching the perimeter.
63 INCLUDE VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)
Approaching the Black Cluster -- the dark warping of
space looms even closer.
WORF
(off instruments)
I'm picking up the gravitational
wavefronts.
We can see something reminiscent of three-dimensional,
transparent "waves" billowing toward us.
RIKER
Engage forward shields --
thirty-five percent.
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/23/91 - ACT FOUR 41C.
63 CONTINUED:
WORF
Shields up.
One of the waves makes contact and the ship BUMPS.
A beat. Then another BUMP. And again.
The mood is business as usual -- this is no surprise.
PICARD
Drop to one quarter impulse,
Ensign.
ENSIGN FELTON
Yes, Sir.
Felton makes the adjustments and the BUMPS come with
less frequency.
RIKER
(to com)
Bridge to engineering.
64 INT. ENGINEERING
Geordi is at the console. Another slight bump.
GEORDI
(to com)
Adjusting shield frequencies now,
Commander. We'll have this
smoothed out in just a second...
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/17/91 - ACT FOUR 42.
65 INT. BRIDGE
A BUMP, then another -- much quieter -- then a third,
barely felt, then nothing but smooth sailing.
RIKER
Correct for any course deviations,
Ensign.
ENSIGN FELTON
Yes, sir.
RIKER
Resume one-third impulse.
WORF
-- Captain!
Everyone turns to Worf, who has his eyes glued to his
instrument panel.
WORF
(continuing)
I am reading something at four
hundred thousand kilometers, off
our starboard bow. Possibly a
ship.
RIKER
Red alert.
Worf hits a command and the CLAXON SOUNDS, the RED
LIGHT flashes on.
PICARD
Take us to visual range, Ensign.
ENSIGN FELTON
(touching console)
Adjusting course...
A few moments...
WORF
(puzzled; off
instruments)
Sensor readings have
disappeared... Now picking up
another reading at four hundred
thousand kilometers -- off the
port bow.
(beat)
It's gone... No -- it's back to
starboard.
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/15/91 - ACT FOUR 42A.
65 CONTINUED:
Riker checks an instrument panel.
RIKER
(off instruments)
Captain, the Black Cluster is
distorting the sensors. We're
picking up echoes of the Enterprise
reflecting off the wavefronts.
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/17/91 - ACT FOUR 43.
65 CONTINUED: (2)
Everyone reacts.
PICARD
Cancel Red Alert. Adjust the
sensors to compensate for the
distortion.
WORF
Aye...
PICARD
Sensor difficulties have been
reported by ships traveling
through Black Clusters -- but not
to this extreme.
WORF
This formation is seven times more
massive than any previously
explored. That could explain the
difference.
Picard nods, turns to the conn.
PICARD
(to Felton)
Resume previous course.
ENSIGN FELTON
Yes, sir.
OFF Picard's face as he considers this development.
66 INT. CLASSROOM - ON TIMOTHY AND CHILDREN
Seen through the observation window. The teacher is
wandering in the background, helping out when needed.
Timothy still looks like Data. The kids are working
at a counter on a project, putting together a chemistry
experiment -- some glassware and colored liquids.
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/18/91 - ACT FOUR 44.
67 OMITTED
68 INCLUDE TROI AND DATA
in the observation area, watching the scene. A boy
makes a comment MOS and all the children laugh MOS --
including Timothy.
DATA
He laughed.
TROI
Yes. It's nice to see, isn't
it... ?
DATA
It is certainly not consistent
with his android persona...
TROI
I'd say he's beginning the process
of letting go of that fantasy...
DATA
Then my work with him is complete?
TROI
(beat)
No, I don't think it is, Data...
A laugh is one step in the right
direction... we need to help him
take a few more steps...
DATA
How, Counselor?
TROI
I'd like you to talk to him...
about your own fascination with
humanity.
Data reacts.
TROI
If you can explain the appeal that
humanity has for you... Timothy
might find it easier to become
a boy again.
Data watches intently as Timothy again laughs MOS --
much more "Human" than we've ever seen Data act. OFF
Data's face.
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/17/91 - ACT FOUR 44A-44B
69 INT. TEN FORWARD
Data and Timothy are sitting at a table. Timothy is
drinking a brightly colored, frosty, soda-like drink.
Data has a bubbly, different colored dessert drink in
front of him. Timothy finishes a long sip.
TIMOTHY
This is great. How's yours?
DATA
The complex polysaccharides, in
reaction with the carbon dioxide,
produces an unusual combination
of texture and efforvescence.
A beat.
TIMOTHY
But how does it taste? Is it
good?
DATA
I am not capable of "tasting" in
the manner which you describe.
I can analyze the composition of
a dessert and make comparative
conclusions about its possible
effect on the human palate.
However, I neither like it, nor
dislike it...
TIMOTHY
Oh. I didn't realize that.
Data indicates the dessert.
DATA
I have often wondered what it must
be like... to have one's mouth
"water" in anticipation of the
arrival of a confection... Or
to feel the pleasure I have
observed in people as they consume
it...
Timothy considers this for a second, staring at his
soda.
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/17/91 - ACT FOUR 45.
69 CONTINUED:
TIMOTHY
You sound like you don't want to
be an android.
DATA
I am an android. That will never
change.
TIMOTHY
But... if you could change...
would you?
DATA
I have always wished to be Human.
I study people carefully in order
to more closely approximate Human
behavior.
TIMOTHY
Why? We're stronger and smarter
than Humans... we can do more than
they can.
DATA
But I cannot take pride in my
abilities. I cannot take
pleasure in my accomplishments.
Timothy has begun scratching a little place in the
table with the tip of his spoon. He concentrates on
this task as though it were the most important thing
in the world.
TIMOTHY
But we never feel bad, either...
DATA
I would gladly risk feeling bad
at times... if it meant that I
could also taste my dessert.
Timothy glances up, very quickly, at Data. Then he
goes back to scratching the place on the table with
his spoon.
OFF Timothy's face as he goes back to his soda.
70 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
The ship under impulse power, the blurry wavefronts
breaking across her bow.
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/17/91 - ACT FOUR 45A.
INT. BRIDGE
Picard, Riker, Worf, and Ensign Felton.
WORF
Captain, gravitational wavefront
intensity is increasing steadily
-- eleven hundred standard "G"
units and rising.
Picard nods, looks up at the viewscreen.
71A OMITTED
72 INCLUDE VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)
as the wave-like blurs continue to come toward the
ship.
Picard studies it for a moment.
PICARD
(turning to Worf)
Let's see if anyone's out there.
Attempt a wide-range sensor sweep,
Lieutenant Worf.
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/18/91 - ACT FOUR 46.
72 CONTINUED:
WORF
(touching controls)
Aye, sir.
A beat as Picard and the others continue to watch the
viewscreen.
WORF
(shaking head)
The gravitational distortion is
too great, Captain. The scanning
signal is again being reflected
off the wavefronts. But I am
unable to compensate.
(looks up)
The sensors are useless.
PICARD
(to com)
Mister Data to the bridge, please.
DATA'S COM VOICE
Acknowledged.
PICARD
(to Worf)
Adjust sensors to short range...
attempt a limited positron scan...
WORF
Aye, sir.
He works the console -- scowls at the result.
WORF
The distortion is still in effect.
RIKER
Try to jacket the scanning beam.
Worf again works the console. Worf shakes his head.
WORF
The secondary beam is being
distorted as well.
The turbolift door opens and Data steps onto the
bridge.
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/16/91 - ACT FOUR 46A.
72 CONTINUED: (2)
PICARD
Mister Data, our sensors have been
rendered ineffective by the field
distortion. I want your
analysis...
Data takes his position, studies his console.
PICARD
(continuing)
Mister Worf, fire phasers, maximum
intensity, narrow spectrum, zero
zero one mark zero four five.
Everyone reacts with puzzlement, then...
RIKER
(understanding)
An experiment, Captain?
PICARD
Exactly.
WORF
Firing, Sir.
Worf touches the controls.
72A EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
inside the Black Cluster. Forward phasers fire -- at
a distance several lengths away from the ship, the
phaser beams SPLIT AND BOUNCE off the warped space
around them, splitting again, bouncing, and then
splitting again until finally dissipating entirely.
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/16/91 - ACT FOUR 47.
73 OMITTED
74 INT. BRIDGE
Everyone reacts to what they've just seen on the
monitor.
PICARD
Explanation, Mister Data.
DATA
The phaser energy was reflected
by the gravitational wavefronts.
It is similar to the phenomenon
distorting the sensor signals.
Picard and Riker exchange a look.
PICARD
Our sensors and our phasers --
both useless.
(to Data)
This reflection phenomenon --
would it have the same effect on
a disruptor-style weapon?
DATA
Yes, sir. Disruptors would be
ineffectual.
PICARD
And a ship's cloaking field?
DATA
It would be extremely difficult
to maintain.
A beat.
PICARD
Mister Data, is it at all likely
that the Vico was attacked inside
the cluster?
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/16/91 - ACT FOUR 48.
74 CONTINUED:
DATA
Given the effects we have
observed, the probability is
exceedingly remote.
Picard nods -- it just confirms his suspicions. A
beat.
PICARD
(to com)
Picard to Troi.
TROI'S COM VOICE
Yes, Captain?
PICARD
(to com)
Please bring Timothy to my ready
room.
75
thru OMITTED
79
79A INT. READY ROOM
Starting on Timothy... moving to reveal Picard
standing in front of his desk, Timothy is facing him
with Troi and Data on either side.
PICARD
(gently)
Timothy, can you tell us what
happened to your ship?
TIMOTHY
I did tell you.
Timothy's struggling to hold on to the android fantasy,
but it's wavering. He gives a few Data-like head
tilts. Picard glances at Troi.
TROI
Tell us again...
TIMOTHY
(evenly)
We were attacked.
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/16/91 - ACT FOUR 49.
79A CONTINUED:
DATA
That is highly unlikely. Our
investigations have clearly
demonstrated --
TIMOTHY
-- We were attacked! We were
attacked!
DATA
Timothy, androids do not lie.
A silent beat. Like a toppled wall, Timothy's fantasy
crumbles.
TIMOTHY
(quiet; horrified)
It was me.
Everyone's taken aback.
DATA
Please explain.
TIMOTHY
It was me. I did it. I killed
them all...
OFF everyone's reactions.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FOUR
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/18/91 - ACT FIVE 50.
ACT FIVE
FADE IN:
80 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
The ship hanging inside the Black Cluster.
80A INT. READY ROOM
Picard, Troi and Data are still reacting to Timothy's
revelation. Timothy speaks quietly, haltingly. He
shivers, repressing sobs, as the agony of revealing
his darkest secret emerges...
TIMOTHY
Everything was shaking. I lost
my balance. I was just trying
to hold on to something. I didn't
mean to do it.
PICARD
What didn't you mean to do,
Timothy?
TIMOTHY
My arm... it hit the computer
panel. That's what destroyed the
ship.
The adults exchange a glance.
TROI
The ship was damaged when your
arm hit the computer panel... ?
Tears roll down his cheek as he nods silently.
TROI
Timothy, listen to me -- the
damage to your ship might have
occurred at the same time you
touched the panel but it was only
a coincidence... this was not
your fault...
TIMOTHY
Yes it was...
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/16/91 - ACT FIVE 50A.
80A CONTINUED:
DATA
It is not possible. The onboard
control systems for every starship
require a user code clearance.
You could not have inadvertantly
affected any of the Vico's
systems.
Timothy doesn't quite get it.
PICARD
Your computer had safety
precautions. There's nothing
you could have touched that would
have damaged your ship.
Timothy is silent, trying to understand. Troi puts
a hand on his shoulder.
TROI
You're not responsible for what
happened to your parents.
Timothy looks up at her, wanting to believe it...
TIMOTHY
But if it wasn't me...
PICARD
We're trying to determine what
happened right now. And anything
that you can remember that may
assist...
BUMP.
The ship is suddenly rocked. It's not serious, but
it catches everyone off-guard. On Timothy's face as
he reacts...
TIMOTHY
That's just how it was... when
it started on the Vico...
Off reactions...
80B INT. BRIDGE
ANOTHER BUMP. The mood is still relaxed.
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/16/91 - ACT FIVE 50B.
80B CONTINUED:
WORF
Wavefront intensity has
increased...
80C INCLUDE VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)
where a blurred wave front is coming toward them.
RIKER
Increase shields to seventy-five
percent.
WORF
Aye.
Worf executes the command. The wavefront fills the
screen...
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/17/91 - ACT FIVE 51.
80C CONTINUED:
WHAM!
The ship is rocked by a violent IMPACT. RED ALERT
LIGHTS go on, the CLAXON SOUNDS.
RIKER
Damage, Mister Worf.
WORF
Minimal, Sir. The shields are
holding.
81 RESUME
Everyone recovers their positions as Picard, Troi, and
Data -- with Timothy close by him -- ENTER the bridge
from the ready room.
PICARD
Ensign, full about -- go to warp
two.
Picard moves into command... ANGLE REMAINS ON Data and
Troi with Timothy for a beat as they observe the next
frantic few seconds...
ENSIGN FELTON (o.c.)
The gravitational distortion is
too high -- we can't maintain a
warp field.
Watching, almost to himself --
TIMOTHY
We couldn't get out either...
81A COMMAND
PICARD
Full shields.
WORF
Aye.
WHAM! The impact is even worse. Everyone holds on...
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/16/91 - ACT FIVE 51A.
81B TIMOTHY
grabs Data's arm, doesn't let go... As they recover
--
ENSIGN LOCKLIN (o.c.)
Captain -- impulse power has been
disrupted. The helm won't
respond.
Timothy is mesmerized... reliving a nightmare...
TROI
Timothy, I think you and I should
go below... get out of everyone's
way, okay... ?
TIMOTHY
No...
He hangs on to Data for dear life...
81C COMMAND
RIKER
(to com)
Riker to La Forge. Can you give
me more power to the shields?
GEORDI'S COM VOICE
Stand by...
81D TIMOTHY
TIMOTHY
That's what they kept saying --
"more shields," "more shields."
Data's head cocks at that...
DATA
Timothy, accompany me...
He moves toward the aft science station... Troi and
Timothy go with him...
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/16/91 - ACT FIVE 51B.
81D CONTINUED:
DATA
(on the move)
I want you to recall everything
you heard people say aboard the
Vico before it was destroyed...
TIMOTHY
I don't know. Just that. Just
"more shields"...
As Data reaches the aft science station and begins to
enter commands...
82 INT. ENGINEERING
Geordi working quickly at his console.
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/16/91 - ACT FIVE 52.
82 CONTINUED:
GEORDI
(to com)
I've transferred fusion reactors
four through nine into the shield
array.
82A INT. BRIDGE - COMMAND
GEORDI'S COM VOICE
That should double the shield
strength.
Worf looks up from his console.
WORF
Wavefront intensity has increased
by an order of magnitude. Impact
in three - two - one.
WHAM! Another hit -- even stronger.
82B DATA, TIMOTHY AND TROI (OPTICAL)
react. Data resumes working quickly at the console --
numbers scrolling rapidly down the screen.
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/16/91 - ACT FIVE 53.
82C OMITTED
83 COMMAND
The crew recovers from the last impact.
WORF
(off instruments)
Wave front intensity is
continuing to increase.
Structural overpressure is
exceeding one hundred eighty
percent.
PICARD
(to com)
La Forge...
84 INT. ENGINEERING
Geordi has struggled to his feet and is making his way
back to the console.
GEORDI
(to com)
I don't understand. That should
have been enough.
Geordi checks the instruments.
85 INT. BRIDGE
GEORDI'S COM VOICE
We could run the shield grid
directly off the warp drive.
PICARD
(to com)
Make it so.
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/16/91 - ACT FIVE 54.
85 CONTINUED:
WORF
(working instruments)
Initiating warp transfer pathways
now...
85A ON DATA AND TIMOTHY (OPTICAL)
Data, still rapidly working at the console.
GEORDI'S COM VOICE
Diverting warp power to the
shields.
TIMOTHY
"Warp power to the shields"...
they said that too, Data... I'm
positive...
Data reacts... continues to work the panels...
86
thru OMITTED
87
88 INCLUDE WORF AND VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)
An intense blurring of space is billowing toward them
-- even more threatening than before.
WORF
(off instruments)
Wavefront intensity has increased
by a factor of ten. Contact in
forty-seven seconds. Without
additional power to the shields,
the outer hull will not hold...
RIKER
(to com)
La Forge...
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/18/91 - ACT FIVE 55.
89
thru OMITTED
91
91A ON DATA AND TIMOTHY (OPTICAL)
Data looks like he's thinking at lightning speed
evaluating the numbers that scroll past him on the
monitor.
GEORDI'S COM VOICE
Warp transfer to the shields
complete. That's as strong as
they're gonna get.
91B
thru OMITTED
91C
92 INCLUDE BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
As everyone reacts to the words.
WORF
Impact in fifteen seconds.
As the seconds count down, Data works like mad at the
console. He taps in one last command. Data looks up
from his console, alarmed.
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/18/91 - ACT FIVE 56.
92 CONTINUED:
DATA
Drop the shields.
Everyone reacts.
RIKER
That's suicide, Data.
DATA
Captain, drop the shields.
The wavefront fills the screen, Picard makes a split
second decision, trusting their lives to Data.
PICARD
(to Worf)
Drop the shields.
WORF
("what?!")
Aye.
As Worf executes the command, the wavefront breaks
across the screen. Everybody hangs on...
Contact. A slight BUMP -- nothing more.
Everyone is taken aback by the turn of events. They
all look toward Data for the explanation.
DATA
Our own shields caused the
increase in the wavefronts...
we induced harmonic
amplification effects.
RIKER
The more energy we dumped into
the shield grid, the worse the
impact...
DATA
Precisely. And that is also what
destroyed the Vico. When Timothy
remembered similar procedures
aboard his ship, I initiated an
analysis of shield output to
wavefront amplitude and discovered
a correlation.
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/17/91 - ACT FIVE 57.
92 CONTINUED: (2)
PICARD
If we had transferred all that
warp power to the shields, it
would've torn the ship apart.
A silent beat.
RIKER
Status, Ensign.
ENSIGN FELTON
Navigation is coming back on line.
PICARD
Full about, one quarter impulse.
Take us out of here.
The Ensign nods and executes the commands. OFF
everyone's reactions...
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/16/91 - ACT FIVE 58.
93
thru OMITTED
96A
97 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
at warp in normal space.
98 INT. CLASS ROOM - ON TIMOTHY
at the edge of a scattered group of kids, fiddling with
an experimental setup. He is no longer in "android"
mode. His hair is back to normal, he wears clothing
more appropriate to a child.
A little girl -- his "lab partner" -- hands him a small
piece of metal and he takes it, attaching it to the
apparatus they're building. He's fitting in -- but
still seems very tentative and fragile.
TROI (o.s.)
It would seem that our young
"android" is finding his way back
to humanity.
99 ON TROI AND DATA
watching from behind the window.
DATA
It would appear so, Counselor.
TROI
It'll take a while for his
emotions to catch up. Timothy's
a boy feeling a great deal of
pain. But he is a boy again.
Data considers her words. She glances at him... A
beat...
TROI
Is this.. difficult for you, Data?
DATA
Difficult?
TROI
To watch him... moving away from
being like you...
STAR TREK: "Hero Worship" - REV. 10/16/91 - ACT FIVE 59.
99 CONTINUED:
DATA
No, Counselor. That would require
an emotional context which I
cannot provide.
A long beat. OFF the moment...
100 ON TIMOTHY
still working on the class assignment.
DATA (o.s.)
Hello, Timothy.
101 INCLUDE DATA
as Timothy turns toward him.
TIMOTHY
(flat)
How are you, Data?
DATA
I am operating within established
parameters. How are you?
TIMOTHY
I'm fine.
The boy looks away, almost embarrassed. Data picks up
on it.
DATA
Is something wrong?
TIMOTHY
You probably thought I was pretty
silly. When I had my hair like
yours and everything.
DATA
On the contrary, it is said that
imitation is the highest form of
flattery. I was... flattered.
Timothy lightens up considerably.
STAR TREK: "Violations" - REV. 10/16/91 - ACT ONE 60.
101 CONTINUED:
TIMOTHY
Can we still do things together
-- even if I'm not really an
android?
DATA
I have many Human friends. I
would be pleased to count you
among them.
TIMOTHY
That would be...
Timothy smiles -- the first time we've seen a genuine
child's smile.
TIMOTHY
(continuing)
...acceptable.
OFF the moment.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FIVE
THE END